Coal Creek Grill

Coal Creek Grill

If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic meal, Coal Creek Grill probably isn’t the right place for it. The crowds can get a bit noisy, fueled perhaps by the Colorado microbrews and the selection of craft cocktails. But don’t let the lively atmosphere fool you--this restaurant should go on your list of venues to visit in Crested Butte if you enjoy good, well-seasoned food. Coal Creek Grill isn’t hard to find, either, located just steps from the Old Town Hall bus stop in a historic building dating from the late 19th century.

What They're Known for: Variations on venison, elk and bison. You can start the day with venison sausage and gravy, enjoy an elk burger for lunch and then sit down in the evening with a smoked bison ribeye, one of the restaurant’s signature dishes. The rest of the menu could be considered Colorado with a southwest style, with offerings that include queso fundido con chorizo (a combo of goat and jack cheese with house made tortilla chips), chipotle beer batter fish and chips, Colorado lamp chops and pinon crusted rainbow trout (a customer favorite). Their extended happy hour (2 - 6 p.m.) offers some great deals--Colorado microbrews for just $2 each, or a buy one, get one free craft cocktail if you purchase an appetizer.

What to Watch for: Crowds can slow down service, so don’t expect a fast meal if you’re hitting the restaurant at prime time. Like other resort restaurants, the restaurant’s prices may be a little high for some visitors. Go during happy hour for the best prices.